Articles tagged with Atrial Fibrillation
A new study by UC San Francisco researchers found that marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and opiate use are associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Cannabis users had a 35% increased likelihood of later developing AF, similar to traditional tobacco use.
A study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that smartwatch health apps detecting atrial fibrillation generated a high rate of false positives and inconclusive results, especially in patients with certain cardiac conditions. Better algorithms and machine learning may help improve the accuracy of these devices.
Researchers found that metformin targeted 30 genes associated with atrial fibrillation, showing direct effects on gene expression for eight. The study suggests metformin may be a promising candidate for treating atrial fibrillation due to its potential to reduce the risk of complications such as stroke and heart failure.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic used AI to evaluate patients' ECGs, identifying new cases of atrial fibrillation that would not have been detected through routine care. The study showed that AI can target screening to high-risk patients, potentially reducing undiagnosed strokes and deaths worldwide.
A recent clinical trial published in Circulation found that Fitbit wearable devices can identify patients with undiagnosed atrial fibrillation, a condition that can lead to strokes. The study, led by Massachusetts General Hospital, used a novel algorithm to detect irregular heart rhythms based on Fitbit sensors.
Researchers analyzed over 6,700 patients treated for blood clots and irregular heart rhythms. Stopping aspirin significantly reduced bleeding complications by 32.3% and prevented one major bleeding event per every 1,000 patients who stopped taking aspirin.
Participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is associated with improved birth outcomes, including lower infant mortality. The review also found that WIC participants are more likely to receive child preventative services, such as vaccines.
A new study from the Smidt Heart Institute shows that when height is accounted for, women are 50% more likely to develop atrial fibrillation (AFib) than men. The study's findings suggest that medical practitioners must remain vigilant in promoting AFib prevention and early interventions among both female and male patients.
A new risk score can help predict mortality for patients with atrial fibrillation who have undergone successful TAVR and been discharged home. The risk score was developed using data from the ENVISAGE-TAVI AF trial, which found that patients with certain clinical risks were more likely to die within a year of discharge.
The American Heart Association offers important guidance on sleep-disordered breathing and its association with cardiac arrhythmia, highlighting the potential benefits of SDB treatment on patient outcomes. The statement emphasizes the need for more randomized data to confirm the link between SDB and reduced atrial fibrillation recurrence.
The new guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for managing patients on warfarin, DOACs, and antiplatelet drugs before and after surgeries. It aims to minimize preventable bleeding and thrombotic events by standardizing approaches and protocols.
Researchers found a link between atrial cardiopathy and dementia in older adults, with those having the condition at a higher risk of developing dementia over time. The study suggests that subtle changes in the left atrium may be an independent risk factor for dementia, even after controlling for other vascular risk factors.
Researchers found a strong association between atrial cardiopathy and dementia in a study of over 15,000 participants. The study revealed that even those without atrial fibrillation or stroke were at higher risk for dementia, highlighting the need to better understand the mechanisms behind this link.
A new study by the University of Southern California found that formulary restrictions and prior authorization policies can limit access to life-saving medications like NOACs, leading to increased stroke risk. The research suggests that these policies may be 'penny wise and pound foolish' for patients with atrial fibrillation.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital found that wrist-worn devices are more cost-effective than traditional electrocardiograms and pulse palpation for screening individuals with atrial fibrillation. The use of these devices was also associated with a reduction in stroke incidence.
Researchers used wearable devices to screen for atrial fibrillation and found them cost-effective. The study suggests that wearable devices can be a valuable tool in atrial fibrillation detection, particularly in high-risk populations.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued a position paper on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine in internal medicine. The guidelines address key issues such as incidental findings, education for physicians and patients, and counseling needs. ACP emphasizes the need for ongoing surveillance and anticoag...
A new study found that post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is associated with a higher risk of hospitalization for heart failure among patients undergoing cardiac and non-cardiac surgery. POAF may be an early marker for heart failure, and its presence could contribute to the development of the condition.
A study of over three million patients found that post-operative atrial fibrillation increases the risk of hospitalization for heart failure. The risk is present regardless of whether surgery was performed for a heart condition, and can be as high as doubling in non-heart-related conditions.
Researchers found that using advanced image-guided technology didn't lead to better outcomes for patients, but rather put them at higher risk of strokes. The study suggests that a simpler approach may be more effective in treating atrial fibrillation.
A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that individuals with at least two cardiometabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, double their risk of developing dementia. The study suggests that prevention of these diseases could be a strategy for reducing dementia risk.
A new study reveals racial and socioeconomic inequalities in the prescribing of oral anticoagulants to reduce stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation. Patients from black and other ethnic minorities, as well as those living in deprived areas, are less likely to receive medication.
A recent genetic study found a link between height and lower risk of coronary heart disease, as well as higher risk for peripheral neuropathy and circulatory disorders. Being tall appears to protect against cardiovascular problems, but may increase the risk of non-cardiovascular conditions.
A new study from Mayo Clinic suggests that AI-enabled electrocardiograms (ECGs) can predict atrial fibrillation, a cardiac rhythm abnormality linked to one-third of ischemic strokes. The algorithm also detects other cardiac disease markers and correlates with small vessel cerebrovascular disease and cognitive decline.
A large study found that small to moderate-sized leaks after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures significantly increased the risk of adverse events such as clotting and bleeding in AFib patients. Researchers suggest optimizing device placement techniques and using newer devices may help minimize leaks and reduce stroke risk.
A smartwatch app was found to accurately detect atrial fibrillation in nearly 94% of users who followed up with a clinician. The study also screened participants for obstructive sleep apnea and found that those flagged for possible sleep apnea were 1.5 times more likely to have AFib.
A study of over 365,000 adults found that people who survive an ischemic stroke are more likely to develop major heart complications and have an increased risk of death and future strokes. Researchers highlight the importance of secondary prevention efforts for this high-risk population.
A study found that handheld electrocardiogram (ECG) devices increase the detection of atrial fibrillation in patients aged 85 and older, but not those 65 and older. The compact devices are feasible for screening most patients during primary care visits.
Research suggests stress plays a bidirectional role in AFib, both increasing episodes and contributing to mental health issues. Stress reduction strategies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and anxiolytic therapy, may improve AFib symptoms and quality of life.
A retrospective cohort study of patients with atrial fibrillation and diabetes found that non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC) were associated with a lower risk of diabetes complications and mortality than warfarin. The study suggests that NOAC may be a better therapeutic choice for this patient population.
The USPSTF recommends against screening for atrial fibrillation in asymptomatic adults aged 50 or older. The current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening, which is associated with a substantial increase in stroke risk. Atrial fibrillation is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke.
A new study by the University of California - San Francisco found an association between increased drinking and hospital visits for atrial fibrillation in a large population. The study linked acute alcohol consumption with a higher risk of new-onset AF in previously undiagnosed individuals.
An extensive study of over 400,000 individuals found no association between total alcohol consumption and ventricular arrhythmias, contradicting the traditional Holiday Heart Syndrome. Higher spirit intake was linked to an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias, but not SCDs.
A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that frail patients with atrial fibrillation are under-prescribed for direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), a safer alternative to traditional warfarin treatment. Despite needing DOACs most, these patients are less likely to receive them than non-frail patients.
A new study found that only alcohol consumption consistently triggers episodes of atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition. The study used an individualized testing method, where participants tested various triggers, including drinking alcohol and caffeine, to find the most effective ways to manage their AF.
Patients with atrial fibrillation are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 complications, including hospitalization and cardiovascular events. The study found a significant increase in mortality rates among those with a history of atrial fibrillation compared to the general population.
Researchers developed a predictive model that maps electric activity of mouse, rabbit, and human cardiac cells, allowing translation of findings across species. The model is expected to accelerate drug development and improve understanding of disease mechanisms.
A study led by Oliver Königsbrügge and Cihan Ay found that current anticoagulants used to prevent strokes in dialysis patients with atrial fibrillation do not provide adequate protection. The VIVALDI study highlights the need for improved stroke prevention methods in this group.
A novel software algorithm detected irregular heart rhythms and identified undiagnosed atrial fibrillation with high reliability. The algorithm requires at least 30 minutes of sensing irregular heart rhythms to indicate the presence of possible atrial fibrillation.
A recent study found that monitoring individual triggers for atrial fibrillation can lead to fewer episodes. Participants who tracked their triggers reported a significant reduction in AFib episodes, suggesting that real-time assessments can empower patients to make lifestyle changes and reduce the risk of complications.
A two-year study found that dabigatran and warfarin can help prevent cognitive decline in older adults with atrial fibrillation. The study, known as GIRAF, included 200 adults over age 70 with confirmed atrial fibrillation.
A new study found that a simple surgical technique called posterior left pericardiotomy significantly reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The procedure, which involves draining excess fluid and small clots from the heart sac, was associated with a 56% lower incidence of irregular heart rhythm...
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed an AI-based method to predict atrial fibrillation risk based on electrocardiogram data. The method was highly predictive, especially in subsets of individuals with prior heart failure or stroke, and could serve as a pre-screening tool for patients at risk.
Women with breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and dying from heart-related issues within the first year. The condition was more common in women who did not receive surgery or radiation as their initial treatment.
Research found that adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and atrial fibrillation were less likely to notice irregular heartbeat symptoms, had a lower quality of life, and experienced more co-occurring health conditions than those without diabetes. This delay in diagnosis may lead to more complications such as stroke.
A new study tracked the spread of a genetic mutation that causes young-onset heart arrhythmia across continents over centuries. The research found that the mutation was passed down from Northern Europe to other parts of the world through migration, and identified a specific gene, KCNQ1, as the cause of the disease.
A team of researchers from Flinders University has developed a single mathematical equation that can accurately model and predict the behavior of ventricular fibrillation, a life-threatening heart rhythm. The equation uses principles from renewal theory to predict the population dynamics of 'rotors' found in the heart during VF.
A new study found that thrombocytopenia, elevated serum total bilirubin level, and enlarged right atrium are independent predictors of all-cause death in patients undergoing the Maze IV procedure. Additionally, these factors also predict recurrent atrial fibrillation.
Research by Christine M. Albert and team found that the risk of developing atrial fibrillation is dependent on the dose of omega-3 fatty acids, contradicting previous studies. High doses may increase risk, while lower doses appear to be safe for most patients.
A recent study found that 26-45% of people with atrial fibrillation fail to adhere to their prescribed direct-acting oral anticoagulants due to cost and bleeding concerns. Researchers interviewed 42 adults who had stopped or reduced dosing, citing these reasons as major barriers to adherence.
The LOOP study found that continuous electrocardiogram monitoring and treatment of atrial fibrillation did not reduce the risk of stroke or systemic arterial embolism in patients at high risk. However, detection and treatment of atrial fibrillation were more common in those undergoing ECG monitoring.
A study of 100 adults with intermittent atrial fibrillation found that alcohol consumption significantly increased the risk for a near-term atrial fibrillation event. The association was more pronounced after one glass of alcohol and within a 4- to 6-hour time frame.
The APAF-CRT trial shows that ablation plus cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) significantly reduces all-cause mortality and hospitalization for heart failure in severely symptomatic permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with narrow QRS. The therapy is superior to pharmacological rate control, supporting it as a first-line t...
Atrial fibrillation screening in 75- and 76-year-olds may significantly reduce the risk of stroke, severe bleeding, and death. The study, published in The Lancet, found that at least 2,300 cases of stroke or death could be avoided per year with national screening.
A large-scale international study found that edoxaban is non-inferior to warfarin for efficacy in preventing adverse events, but led to higher bleeding complications. The trial suggests that treatment with edoxaban can be valuable in managing AF patients after TAVR, especially when a lower dose of edoxaban is used.
Research found that longer and more frequent night shifts increase the risk of atrial fibrillation and coronary heart disease. Genetic predisposition did not affect the link between night shifts and AF risk.
A Spanish study found that same-day rapid screening, face mask use, and improved ventilation significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 transmission rates at an indoor concert with no physical distancing. The research suggests protocols for preventing virus transmission during such events.
A new study has identified key risk factors for major atrial fibrillation outcomes in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, including age, obesity, and heart function. The research aims to create a risk-assessment tool to identify high-risk patients and prevent hospitalizations.
Younger athletes are at greater risk of atrial fibrillation than older athletes, with a 3.6 times higher likelihood. Mixed sports athletes also have a higher risk compared to endurance sport athletes. The study suggests that athletes face significantly greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
Researchers found that a type of echocardiogram can predict which COVID-19 patients are most at risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a condition that increases the risk of heart failure and stroke. Patients with high levels of certain biomarkers in their blood also showed increased risk.